My Real Personalized Skincare Routine for Sensitive Combination Skin

동훈 Jason 임
May 7
4 min read

Finding the right skincare routine can feel overwhelming, especially with so many tips, trends, and product recommendations out there. But the truth is, effective skincare isn't about copying what others do — it's about learning how to do what's right for your skin.

That's the essence of personalized beauty in skincare routine:

choosing steps, products, and ingredients that fit you, not just what's popular. When you understand how to do a routine that reflects your skin’s actual needs, you unlock the power of true personalized beauty — where every step has a purpose, and every product works with your skin, not against it.

Step 1: Toner with Hyaluronic Acid

Every night, my skincare begins with a toner that contains hyaluronic acid, one of my favorite ingredients. This powerful hydrator not only deeply moisturizes the skin but also gives the toner a unique, slightly sticky texture — a sign that it’s packed with moisture-retaining properties. I squeeze out about a coin-sized amount of toner and gently pat it across my face. This step isn’t just about wetting the skin — it’s about giving it a first layer of hydration to prepare for the rest of the routine.

DIY Toner pads therapy

For days when I have visible breakouts or leftover scars, I take it a step further with a toner pack. Using an ultra-thin cotton pad, I soak it generously with toner and place it over the troubled area (usually my chin) for about 10 minutes. It’s a simple but effective way to target redness and irritation — a little DIY skin-soothing therapy at home.

Step 2: Water-Based Moisturizer

Next comes my go-to moisturizing cream — one that contains zero oil and is completely focused on water-based hydration. I don’t hold back when applying it — I apply a generous amount to fully cover my face. What makes this step even more effective is using a cream that feels cool on the skin. That sensation not only helps lower skin temperature but also soothes any irritation or fatigue that may have built up during the day.

Rather than quickly patting it in, I give my skin time to absorb it naturally. This helps prevent product pilling and allows the moisture to settle deep within the skin.

Step 3: Gentle Lotion with Balanced Oils

To seal in everything, I finish with a gentle lotion. Mine has a bit of oil to lock in moisture, but it’s made from the most basic, safe ingredients — mild enough for babies or sensitive body areas. I specifically avoid lotions with too many “extras” or functional additives, because more functions often mean more ingredients, and that can easily overwhelm the skin.

The purpose here is simple: build a protective barrier over my skin so the hydration doesn’t evaporate.

Different routine on different conditions

In the summer, I scale back and use only a small amount to avoid clogging pores or feeling greasy. But in the winter, I increase the amount to help seal in moisture and protect my skin from dryness. I adjust the amount depending on the season and my skin’s daily condition, keeping the balance just right.

Step 4: Sheet Mask

On days when my skin feels particularly sensitive or irritated, I sometimes skip every other step and just use a sheet mask. I pick one that focuses heavily on hydration and soothing ingredients. Leaving it on for about 15–20 minutes helps calm everything down quickly. The key is to choose a mask with the specific function your skin needs that day — for me, it’s always about calming and deep hydration.

My 4 Golden Rules for Skincare

Let me break down the key principles that guide every choice I make in my skincare routine.

1. Balance Between Oil and Water

Understanding the oil-water balance in your skin is crucial. If you have oily skin, you likely need more water-based hydration to help regulate sebum. If you’re dry, layering water and then sealing it in with light oil will keep your skin nourished. An unbalanced routine can lead to excess oil production or flakiness — both of which are avoidable with the right product selection.

2. Fewer Ingredients, More Intention

I always choose products with gentle ingredients and minimal formulations. The more ingredients there are, the higher the chance of irritation — especially for daily use. I prefer products with clean labels and without harmful additives. For me, skincare is about quality of ingredients, not quantity.

3. Know What Works — and What Doesn’t

Personalized beauty starts with knowing which ingredients your skin loves — like hyaluronic acid, in my case. But it’s just as important to know what doesn’t work. Once you identify an ingredient that triggers irritation or breakouts, it becomes easier to avoid the wrong products and curate your own skincare line around ingredients that make your skin thrive.

4. Don’t Overcomplicate It

More steps don’t equal better skin. I’ve learned to listen to what my skin actually needs, not what social media says I should do. A simplified routine with effective products is easier to follow, less stressful on your skin, and often more sustainable in the long run. I always ask myself: “Does this product serve a clear purpose?” If not, I skip it.

For Your Skin, Your Formula

At the end of the day, skincare should be personal — not generic. That’s why personalized beauty and private label skincare go hand in hand. By customizing your routine around what your skin truly needs, you’re not just following trends — you’re creating your own.